Nigeria women’s national team head coach, Justin Madugu, has debunked rumours of a fallout with forward Monday Gift, clarifying that her omission from the latest Super Falcons squad was purely tactical and not due to disciplinary reasons.
Madugu’s clarification follows public discussions over the absence of Monday and Spain-based striker Edna Imade from the team’s roster for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic.
Read More: Madugu Snubs Monday Gift in Super Falcons Squad for Benin Clash
“No issues with Monday Gift” – Madugu
Speaking to Nigeria Football, the coach firmly dismissed any notion of personal disagreement with the Washington Spirit forward.
“I have no issues at all with Gift,” Madugu said.
“She is very much part of my plans and will surely play her part in our quest for global success. But right now, there is strong competition for the forward position considering the form of players like Esther Okoronkwo, Chiwendu Ihezuo, and Joy Omewa, who have all been excellent.”
Madugu praised Omewa’s consistency, noting her remarkable scoring record with Fortuna Hjørring in Denmark as a key factor influencing his current selection choices.
“Omewa has already scored in eight consecutive matches this season, including in the Champions League.”
“I have no plans to shortchange anyone. We must always select the best players available.”
“Gift will definitely be given a look-in during the next camp, where we can assess her performance properly,” he added.
Read More: Monday Gift ‘Hopes’ to Get Called-Up to the Super Falcons Camp
Monday Gift Determined to Earn Recall
Gift Monday’s last appearance for the Super Falcons came in October 2024, when Nigeria faced Algeria in a two-legged friendly. She scored in the 4–1 victory in Lagos.
The 23-year-old forward has been in fine form this season, contributing eight goals and two assists for Washington Spirit, helping them reach the NWSL playoffs.
Speaking after her club’s recent win, Monday says she her desires to return to the national team.
“Playing for the Super Falcons is a very big honour for me, and I am more than happy to wear the jersey,” she said.
“I am just doing what I can to get my act together and hope I get called up. I’m preparing for what is ahead of me.”
Super Falcons Maintain Advantage in WAFCON Qualifiers
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons took a firm step toward qualification after defeating Benin Republic 2–0 in the first leg in Lome last Friday.
They will host the return leg in Abeokuta on Tuesday, seeking to seal their place in the next round of the qualifiers.
